A
BALLINDERRY woman who lost her still born baby three years ago
is holding a special balloon release event for all those who
have lost babies.

Helen Savage is encouraging anyone who have
lost a child during pregnancy, at birth or afterwards to go
along to the event this Sunday at Belfast Castle.

Helen, founder of the charity Life After
Loss, will be joined by members of SANDS, Remember our Child and
the Miscarriage Association at 3pm in the event which is
supported by MP Jeffrey Donaldson among others.

From 3pm in the Donegall Room at Belfast
Castle, free tags will be offered for people to write a special
message and attach it onto the balloon. Then at around 1000
balloons will be released.

The event will also be a chance to meet other
bereaved parents for a chat.

Helen set up Life After Loss in 2007 in
memory of her son Samuel who was stillborn due to a group B
strep infection.

The group was recently granted charitable
status.

Helen said Sunday would be an opportunity for
many others, like her, to write a special message to their
babies. She said the event will offer support and let parents
know they are not alone "It is one of the few things that you
can do to remember your child," she said.

"It is a really emotional day for many and it
is a chance to offer comfort and support to those who are in
need of it.

"There are some people are coming over from
England to the event and it is good for us to get together.

"It is not only mothers but whole families
who attend."

Mr Donaldson said he was glad to be able to
support the event and praised the work of Helen and her
colleagues.

"It is vital that families receive support after
losing a little baby and the event will highlight the need for
that support on the day and in the future" he said.

There will also be a chance to take part in the
balloon race. Last year's winning balloon reached Norway. You
can also make a donation to the Babyloss Awareness Campaign by
logging onto their website
www.babyloss-awareness.org Anyone looking support can also
visit the website which is
www.lifeafterloss.org.uk or call 07599707902 or 07845700169
for more details.